36 Spix's Macaw Facts: Size, Habitat, Lifespan, Population

Spix’s macaw, scientifically classified as Cyanopsitta spixii, is an enchanting avian species colloquially referred to as the small blue macaw or the blue Spix macaw. Its indigenous habitat is nestled within the verdant landscapes of Macau, Brazil. Within the intricate tapestry of avian taxonomy, this captivating creature finds its place as a distinguished member of the Tribe Orrini, intricately positioned within the subfamily Arini— an assemblage exclusively reserved for Neotropical parrots. Furthermore, it seamlessly integrates itself into the familial lineage of paternal ancestors, firmly establishing its roots within the expansive realm of true parrots.

Spix’s Macaw Facts: Size, Habitat, Lifespan, Population

The name Spix’s macaw bears the imprints of both Marcgrave’s astute observations and von Speaks’ meticulous specimen collection, creating a historical tableau that encapsulates the symbiotic relationship between human curiosity and the intricate beauty of the avian realm.

1. Discovery and Naming

The inception of human acquaintance with Spix’s macaw traces back to the keen observations of the erudite German naturalist, Georg Marcgrave. It was amidst the sprawling expanse of the state of Pernambuco in Brazil that Marcgrave first glimpsed the resplendent presence of this avian marvel. The nomenclature of this species, however, was not arbitrarily assigned; rather, it pays homage to another luminary of naturalist exploration. Johann Baptiste von Speaks, a German naturalist of historical repute, lends his name to this avian marvel. The genesis of the nomenclature unfolded when von Speaks meticulously collected a specimen from the coastal realms of Rio Sao Francisco during the eventful 5th expedition in the northeastern reaches of Bahia, Brazil.

2. Spix’s Macaw Overview

Spix’s macaw, a captivating medium-sized parrot with a dainty weight of approximately 300 grams (11 oz), stands diminutive when juxtaposed with its larger macaw counterparts. The avian spectacle showcases a resplendent array of feathers, adorned with an intricate tapestry of blue hues. From the ethereal gray-blue crowns to the light blue underparts and the transparently cerulean upper regions, the macaw is a chromatic masterpiece in avian taxonomy.

Noteworthy is its physical resemblance between genders, with men and women exhibiting near-identical physiognomies, albeit with a discernible size differential, women tending towards a smaller average. A somber reality persists: there exists no surviving member of this species in the untamed realms, relegating its existence solely to captive environments.

3. Habitat and Geography

Within the intricate dance of nature, Spix’s macaw wove its existence into the wood galleries nestled along the riparian Caribbean, specifically in the embrace of the Tabebuia Aurea, within the expansive embrace of the Rio Sao Francisco drainage basin. The stage for this avian ballet was set in the arid embrace of northeastern Brazil, where the dry forest climate dictated the macaw’s daily life.

Its natural habitat, however, was not a boundless canvas but rather a tapestry woven with limitations. The avian virtuoso found itself intricately entwined with the arboreal realm, where trees served not only as a roosting refuge but as essential contributors to the macaw’s intricate lifecycle of nesting and feeding.

4. The Extinction Plight of Spix’s Macaw

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) sadly declares the Spix’s macaw as probably extinct in the wild. This vividly colored bird, once thriving in the northeastern Bahia region of Brazil, has faced a drastic decline. In 2000, a rare sighting of a male bird brought a glimmer of hope, only to be dashed by subsequent observations. Today, the Spix’s macaw clings to existence through captive breeding programs orchestrated by various conservation agencies, a last-ditch effort sponsored by the Brazilian Government in 2016. Classified under CITES Appendix I, stringent regulations make trade in these magnificent creatures illegal, except for purposes deemed legal, such as conservation, scientific study, or education.

5. Reviving the Blue Mirage: ICMBO’s Endeavor

The Brazilian Department of Natural Resources, specifically the Institute for Conservation and Management of Brazilian Ornithology (ICMBO), spearheads a crucial project aimed at resurrecting the Spix’s macaw in its native habitat. This ambitious initiative seeks to reintroduce the species to the wild, a feat requiring not only a sufficient number of breeding birds but also the restoration of their natural habitats. The delicate dance of conservation involves not only rescuing the Spix’s macaw from the brink but also ensuring a conducive environment for their resurgence. The ICMBO project navigates the complexities of rehabilitating a species on the verge of oblivion, combining biological expertise with ecological restoration efforts.

6. Distinctive Features of Spix’s Macaws

Spix’s macaws stand out as the sole representatives of small blue macaws, distinguished by unmistakable characteristics. These captivating birds exhibit a unique facial trait – bare gray skin – setting them apart in the avian world. Remarkably, these avian wonders boast a sizeable physique, measuring approximately 56 cm (22 inches) in length, with wingspans ranging from 24.7 to 30.0 cm (9.7–11.8 inches). Notably, the allure of Spix’s macaws extends beyond mere dimensions; their gender-neutral outward appearance presents a fascinating facet of their biology.

7. Gendered Nuances and Physical Metrics

Delving into the intricacies of Spix’s macaw biology reveals nuanced gender-specific details. Despite the outward similarity between adult males and females, a closer inspection reveals distinctive attributes. In captivity, male Spix’s macaws carry an average weight of about 318 grams (11.2 oz), while their female counterparts tip the scales at approximately 288 grams (10.2 oz). Their plumage, a mesmerizing gradient of feather gray-blue, transitions into a delicate pale blue on the lower regions, offering a captivating contrast with the transparent blue hues adorning their upperparts, wings, and tail.

8. Limbs and Facial Features

The aesthetic appeal extends to the avian extremities, with the legs and feet of Spix’s macaws donning a rich brown-black hue, adding a touch of earthy elegance to their vibrant plumage. A detailed examination of adult individuals unveils further intricacies. The facial canvas, bereft of feathers, showcases a subdued gray tone, complementing the overall aesthetic. A darker shade envelops the cere, creating a stark contrast, while the iris contributes a splash of vibrancy in a striking yellow hue. This meticulous detailing emphasizes the meticulous design of nature in crafting these captivating creatures.

9. Captivity and Maturity: Unlocking the Teenage Prisoner’s Secrets

Within the confines of captivity, a mysterious teenager stands as a symbol of the elusive Spix’s macaw. The defining characteristic, a conspicuous white stripe crowning the chunky and pale-gray face skin, captures the imagination. This avian prisoner, shrouded in enigma, beckons us to explore the depths of its existence. The visual peculiarity hints at a tale of restraint, raising questions about the impact of captivity on the elusive species.

10. Breeding Challenges and the Eccentricities of Captive Bread Speaks

Delving into the intricacies of Spix’s macaw breeding, we encounter the fascinating journey of Captive Bread Speaks’ mako. An intriguing revelation surfaces—the onset of sexual maturity at a remarkable age of seven. Yet, the narrative takes an unexpected turn with a couple from Loro Park Fundación, laying eggs at the age of five but succumbing to infertility. The tantalizing mystery surrounding late maturity in captivity beckons scrutiny, hinting at the complex interplay of breeding and artificial environmental factors.

11. Courtship Rituals and Nesting: A Ballet of Spix’s Macaw

The courtship rituals of Spix’s macaw unfold as a captivating ballet, involving intricate engagements like feeding in the confluence and synchronized flights. In a departure from the norm, late sexual maturity may extend across seasons, mirroring the elaborate courtship of other large parrots. The fascinating nesting habits come to light, with Spix’s macaws meticulously choosing the intersection of mature curry trees, crafting nests that stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time.

12. Eggs, Incubation, and the Symphony of Parental Care

As the breeding season from November to March envelops the captive Spix’s macaw, a dance of life unfolds. In the wild, the blue Spix macaw is believed to lay three eggs per clutch, a delicate ritual echoing nature’s precision. Captivity, however, alters the rhythm, with an average of four eggs and an incubation period of 25-25 days, a responsibility shouldered exclusively by the females. The fledglings, emerging after 70 days, embark on their journey to freedom within 100-130 days—a symphony of life nurtured by maternal dedication.

13. Bird Distribution in Pernambuco and Bahia (1960s)

During the 1960s, the geographical distribution of Spix’s macaw exhibited a notable disparity, favoring Parnambuco over Bahia. However, intriguingly, this prevalence in Parnambuco was only a temporary phenomenon and did not persist beyond that period. The dynamics of the Macaw of Speaks witnessed a recent shift (1979-87) to the Rio Sao Francisco valley in northeastern Brazil, particularly in the basin located south of the river Bahia.

14. Expansion of Macaw Range (1974)

In 1974, a pivotal expansion of Spix’s macaw’s possible range unfolded, driven by information sourced from various channels—bird expert Helmut Sick, traders, and trappers. This expansion encompassed the northeastern portion of the Goose state and the southern reaches of Maranhão state. Additionally, parts of Piauí underwent an extensive expansion, transforming into a vast expanse of dry interior within northeastern Brazil.

15. Insights from Melanesia Creek

An in-depth study of solitary birds discovered in Melanesia Creek in 7 yielded substantial insights into the habitat of Spix’s macaw. Contrary to prior estimations suggesting a widespread presence within Brazil, including diverse habitat types like palm wetlands, cerrado, and dried caetata, evidence from Melanesia Creek painted a different picture. It unveiled Spix’s Macaw as an exceptionally well-adapted resident of vanishing wooden galleries.

16. Impact of Deforestation on Species Disappearance

Renowned bird expert Tony Silva emphasized a direct correlation between the disappearance of the species and the disruption of cariboura, notably in the Pernambuco region of the San Francisco River. This underscores the susceptibility of Spix’s macaw to environmental changes, particularly the alteration of its nesting sites.

17. Uncertainty in Bird’s Range and Habitat

The exact range of Spix’s macaw remains uncertain, compounded by the fact that much of its flying terrain was cleared before naturalists had the opportunity to thoroughly investigate nest sites or bird habitats. The historical range is now believed to cover parts of Bahia and Pernambuco, forming a corridor stretching 150–200 km up to Rio Sao Francisco in Juà or Abara.

18. Challenges in Observing East-West Bird Movements

Observations of bird movements from East to West pose considerable interpretative challenges. These sightings are likely either escaped captive birds or possibly misidentifications of unknown species, such as the red-bellied Macao (Arthopistak manilatus).

19. Flora of Spix’s Macaw Habitat in Bahia

The Cattinga plants in northeastern Bahia, constituting the habitat of Spix’s macaw, are characterized by stunted trees, prickly plants, and cacti, predominantly belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. This unique environment provides crucial sustenance for the macaw, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the species with its habitat.

20. Characteristics of Caraiba Woodland

The macaw’s habitat, specifically the cariba or Caribbean trump tree (Tabebuia caraiba), thrives in the hottest and driest part of the Cattinga, within the wooden galleries. These galleries, acting as microcosms in the catheter, are distinctive timber edges extending up to 18 meters across both ends of seasonal waterways, at least 5 meters wide in the Rio San Francisco drainage basin.

21. Unique Features of Galleries

Caraiba woodlands, documented in the middle and lower levels of the creek system, are marked by even-spaced, long (1 meter) shrubs intersecting with low scrubs and desert cacti. These large mature plants not only offer shelter for the species but also support the growth of seedlings and serve as nesting grounds for Spix’s macaw.

22. Last Known Wild Populations

Significantly, the Riacho Melancia reservoir, situated 30 km south of Kuro, emerges as a critical site, hosting the last known wild Spix’s macaw populations. Other notable locations include Macau, Riacho Big Grande, and Riacho da Vergam Bah, strategically positioned within the Rio Sao Francisco drainage basin, emphasizing the importance of preserving these habitats.

23. Deforestation Impact on Rio Sao Francisco Shore in Pernambuco

The distressing reality of habitat loss is exemplified by the clearing of Brazida Creek on the north shore of Rio Sao Francisco in Pernambuco. This act not only highlights the vulnerability of Spix’s macaw but also underscores the urgent need for conservation measures to protect its remaining habitats.

24. Vocalizations: Decrypting the Whichaka Call and Beyond

The vocal repertoire of Spix’s macaw adds another layer of intrigue to its tale. The confrontational call, described as “whichaka,” unfolds a rich linguistic tapestry, resonating through low rumbles in the abdomen. This distinctive sound, ascending to higher altitudes, is accompanied by a repeated short grating—a cacophony that both captivates and jars. The forest echoes with the enigmatic vocalizations of a species whose lifetime in the wild remains elusive, the only documented male living over 20 years, while the largest captive bird bowed out at 34, leaving behind a legacy of mystery and untold stories.

25. Adolescent Metamorphosis

The journey from adolescence to adulthood unveils a captivating metamorphosis in Spix’s macaws. During their teenage years, these birds undergo a visual transformation, marked by nuances that distinguish them from their mature counterparts. Notably, the facial skin takes on a delicate pale gray, a departure from the stark gray observed in adults. The once yellow iris matures into a deep brown, while a distinctive white stripe emerges along the upper central region of their beaks. This transition not only underscores the dynamism of their lifecycle but adds an element of intrigue to the visual narrative of Spix’s macaws.

26. The Market Value of Rarity: Speculating on Spix’s Macaw

Curiosity piqued, one might wonder about the monetary value attached to the enigmatic Spix’s macaw. In the contemporary market, these rare avian wonders, along with other endangered species, command a staggering price tag of $200,000 or more. The commodification of such rare and endangered creatures, unfortunately, doesn’t merely represent an exotic pet trade. Instead, it contributes significantly to a lucrative and clandestine market that generates an astounding $100 billion to $20 billion annually.

This alarming figure, one-third of the revenue generated by the illicit drug and black-market weapons trade, underscores the urgent need for stringent measures to curb the illegal trade in endangered species. The economic forces driving this market pose a formidable challenge to conservationists striving to protect these fragile creatures from further exploitation.

27. Ecological Dependencies and Rarity

The seemingly elusive nature of Spix’s macaw can be unraveled through an exploration of its dietary predilections and ecological dependencies. A connoisseur of the sparse offerings of kaiyiba and assorted Euphorbiaceae herbs, this avian luminary found sustenance amidst the dominion of cutting-edge plants. The inherent limitation of its ecological niche, intertwined with the indispensable requirement for specific tree varieties, rendered the macaw a rare gem in the vast expanse of the Brazilian wilderness.

The twentieth-century narrative echoes a haunting refrain of its scarcity in the wild, a testimony to the delicate balance it sought within its restricted habitats. Even in the confined quarters of captivity, Spix’s macaw maintained an elusive allure, a testament to the challenge posed by its inherently narrow natural range.

28. Challenges in Captivity

The saga of Spix’s macaw, both in the untamed wilderness and the realms of human stewardship, unfolds against a backdrop of challenges. The limited range of its preferred edibles, intricately linked with the kaiyiba and Euphorbiaceae herbs, mirrored the macaw’s struggles in the captivated sphere. The intricacies of its ecological tapestry, woven with a dependence on specific plants, posed a formidable barrier to its flourishing in captivity.

The rarity that defined its presence in the wild echoed within the confines of artificial environments, where the macaw’s natural range became a defining factor in its scarcity. The allure of Spix’s macaw, amplified by its distinctive appearance and behavioral idiosyncrasies, thus carried within it the paradox of being both a captivating spectacle and an elusive enigma.

29. Flora of the Spix’s Macaw: Unveiling Dietary Diversity

In the vibrant wilderness that Spix’s macaws call home, the culinary cornerstone of their sustenance revolves around the seeds and nuts, with a marked preference for Pinho (Jatropa poohliana varo molysima) and Favela (Cindoscolus philalanthus). These avian gastronomes, however, face a botanical conundrum, for these plant species, though delectable, are not indigenous to the bird’s natural habitat. Their historical significance in the macaw’s diet, therefore, becomes a testament to the adaptability and resourcefulness of these azure-feathered beings.

30. Forging a Gastronomic Symphony: The Macaw’s Eclectic Menu

Delving into the gastronomic repertoire of the Spix’s macaw reveals a symphony of flavors drawn from an eclectic array of plant species. Jojiroi (Zygophus zojeiro), bursa (Shinopis brasiliensis), imburana (Comifora leptoflois or Barcera leptoflovius), and pheochro (Pilosacerius pyohayensis) form the core of their dietary mosaic. Yet, the culinary narrative takes an intriguing turn with the inclusion of Farandrosa-terraciosa-Farandrosi-terracio-terracio-terracio-terraciosa (Farandrosa-terracio-araboiras).

Recent findings, curated by meticulous Maco researchers, hint at the potential augmentation of the macaw’s menu with the addition of Matenus rigida and Geophroia spinosa. The botanical diversity mirrors the macaw’s adaptability, illustrating a nuanced interplay between avian foraging instincts and the rich biodiversity of their habitat.

31. Unraveling Nature’s Bounty: Macaw Researchers’ Discoveries

The curtain of mystery surrounding the Spix’s macaw’s diet unveils itself further as intrepid researchers from Maco unearth valuable insights. Reports from these meticulous observers illuminate the potential inclusion of two hitherto undisclosed plants in the macaw’s culinary lexicon: Matenus rigida and Geophroia spinosa. These revelations add nuanced layers to our understanding of the macaw’s foraging habits, painting a vivid portrait of a species deeply intertwined with the flora that surrounds it. As the scientific community unravels the intricate threads of the macaw’s diet, tantalizing possibilities arise, suggesting the enigmatic presence of Combatum Leprosum, adding an air of mystery to the ongoing exploration of the macaw’s dietary preferences.

32. Botanical Ballet: The Spix’s Macaw’s Dance with Diversity

In the Sylvan Theater where the Spix’s macaw performs its botanical ballet, each plant assumes a role in the intricate choreography of the macaw’s dietary habits. Pinho and Favela, despite their non-indigenous origins, stand as historical pillars in the avian menu, echoing the macaw’s ability to adapt to its surroundings. Jojiroi, bursa, imburana, and pheochro join this arboreal ballet, crafting a narrative of diversity that transcends the boundaries of conventional avian diets.

The recent revelations of Matenus rigida and Geophroia spinosa inject an element of surprise, promising new chapters in the saga of the Spix’s macaw’s culinary exploration. The macaw’s diet, an intricate tapestry woven with threads of botanical variety, continues to be a subject of fascination and inquiry, inviting us to witness the avian connoisseurs’ dance with nature’s bounty.

33. Low Heterozygosity and Reproductive Challenges

Within the confines of captive populations, a pervasive issue looms large — a daunting quagmire of genetic monotony. The heterozygosity levels, a measure of genetic diversity, plunge to abyssal depths due to the meager founding stock procured from the wild. These inaugural birds, while heralding captivity, were but a scant handful, entwined in both wild and captive realms. The repercussions reverberate through the captive avian community, manifesting as distressingly elevated rates of infertility and fetal demise. Within the ambit of the Avian Wildlife Preservation Initiative (AWWP), a mere one in six eggs transforms into a viable hatchling, a disheartening statistic underscoring the precarious state of captive avian reproduction.

Furthermore, the genesis of the reproductive tribulations appears cloaked in enigma, initially fingered as a byproduct of bloodline intricacies. A closer examination of captive specimens, however, reveals an unexpected twist — a palpable delay in attaining sexual maturity. The oviparous saga unfolds, unraveling a peculiar facet where the youngest of fertile eggs linger in incubation for a staggering decade, an unfathomable temporal stretch echoing the intricacies of avian biology.

34. Captive Breeding Conundrums

The intricacies of captive breeding spiral into a multifaceted labyrinth, with inbreeding emerging as a specter haunting the avian tapestry. Strikingly, the fowl under human stewardship display a propensity to succumb to this genetic bottleneck at a rate twice that of their canine counterparts. This disconcerting revelation paints a sobering portrait of the challenges inherent in preserving avian biodiversity within the artificial confines of human-controlled breeding programs.

Navigating this challenging terrain requires the discerning eye and experienced touch of dedicated staff members. Each candidate for inclusion in the breeding regimen undergoes a rigorous selection process, meticulously curated to mitigate the perils of losing a precious avian progeny. The odds, however, remain stacked against success, with a disheartening one in ten viable eggs eventually hatching, a testament to the fragile equilibrium maintained within the breeding program.

35. Sexual Identity and Reproductive Riddles

The journey from egg to fledgling unfolds against a backdrop of intricacies concerning sexual identity and reproductive maturity. A stark contrast emerges in the weaning process, where no canine counterpart is lost, standing in stark contrast to the challenges posed by the fledgling avian cohorts. The determination of gender, a pivotal aspect in breeding endeavors, unfurls through non-invasive DNA testing of placid feathers, unraveling the enigma of avian sex at a molecular level. The fledgling goats, however, defy such easy classification, with their gender identity concealed until the plumage unfolds, a revelation delayed until the tender age of one to two months. Bird accessories on Amazon

36. Mate Selection and Interspecies Dynamics

In the realm of Spix’s macaw, the intricacies of mate selection unfurl as a complex ballet where individual choice reigns supreme. The ostensibly straightforward task of ensuring the pairing of optimal genetic mates transforms into an elusive endeavor, shrouded in uncertainty. Artificially engineered “twins” may, on the surface, mirror the dynamics of a mated pair, engaging in mutual grooming and connection. Yet, the veneer of companionship masks the underlying truth — these avian counterparts are not authentic mates, and the revelation of true compatibility may span multiple seasons, a testament to the capricious nature of interspecies relationships.

Adding yet another layer of complexity, the specter of viral disease looms large over the pairing process. Infected birds, carriers of potential contagion, find themselves in isolation from their uninfected counterparts. This stringent segregation, a precautionary measure, seeks to stave off the peril of propagating virulent maladies within the captive avian community, underscoring the delicate dance between preservation and potential epidemic.